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What the M

What the M

By: Kent D. McPhail and Stephen M. Hladik
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 Do you ever wonder who is behind the scenes collecting and processing all those monthly mortgage payments throughout the entire country? In the world of residential mortgages, the mortgage servicing industry is a critical but not always visible player in the lending and home ownership process. Unveiling how mortgage servicers manage the residential homeownership industry is the concept behind “What the M,” a new podcast that discusses the complex issues facing default services and the path forward for the mortgage industry and homeowners alike. The industry is comprised of more than 160 mortgage servicers representing more than 80% of the outstanding principal balances on mortgages in the U.S. Without the involvement of these vital mortgage servicers, obtaining and maintaining a home mortgage as we know it would not exist.“‘What the M’ features industry movers and shakers discussing the challenges faced by mortgage servicers, law firms and the American homeowner,” said Stephen Hladik, one of the co-hosts for the podcast and chair of the Advisory Council of the Legal League 100. “We will discuss trends in the economy, regulatory oversight, changes in the law, changes in technology and a myriad of other factors affecting the industry.”Hladik and co-host Kent McPhail are experienced attorneys with multistate practices in the default servicing industry. Both have decades of experience representing secured creditors; however, each host brings his own unique perspective to the podcast. McPhail hails from the Deep South (think boiled peanuts and shrimp & grits), while Hladik hails from the Northeast (think cheesesteaks and scrapple). “With this Yin and Yang, we hope to bring an entertaining and informative approach to the industry and those who make it hum,” McPhail said.Episodes of “What the M” begin airing mid-September and can be found wherever you listen to podcasts.© 2026 What the M Economics
Episodes
  • Episode 63 - Marcel Bryar Returns

    Episode 63 - Marcel Bryar Returns
    Jan 26 2026

    The 63rd episode of What the M features Marcel Bryar, Founder and Managing Director of Mortgage Policy Advisors, LLC.

    A longtime friend of the show is back for his 2nd visit! Marcel Bryar’s 25+ years of experience in mortgage operations, regulation, and policy oversight make him an invaluable industry resource. We feel incredibly fortunate to have him back on the show to share his thoughts on the rise of contested litigation in default servicing, the challenges servicers face with compensation, and the importance of effectively communicating these complexities to jurors (along with, of course, his latest thoughts on the World Cup!)

    Welcome BACK to What the M, Marcel!

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    A huge thank you to our Season 4 sponsor, Black Dome Services. Black Dome Services is a next-generation property services provider, offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to the unique needs of their clients. From property inspections, preservation, maintenance, renovations and various other interior and exterior property related services, you have a trusted leader dedicated to delivering exceptional results and maximizing the value of your properties. For more information, please visit their website at www.blackdomeservices.com or email Vic Draper at Victor.Draper@blackdomeservices.com.

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    27 mins
  • Episode 62 - Kevin Shivers

    Episode 62 - Kevin Shivers
    Jan 12 2026

    The 62nd episode of What the M features Kevin Shivers, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Association of Community Bankers.

    In this episode, Kent, Steve, and Kevin take a closer look at the community banking industry. Community banks throughout the United States are a backbone of small community banking, lending and financial services to many. In these ever-changing times of the financial world, one area of growth and strength continues to be community banks – the local branch right on Main Street in your hometown.

    Welcome to What the M, Kevin!

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    A huge thank you to our Season 4 sponsor, Black Dome Services. Black Dome Services is a next-generation property services provider, offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to the unique needs of their clients. From property inspections, preservation, maintenance, renovations and various other interior and exterior property related services, you have a trusted leader dedicated to delivering exceptional results and maximizing the value of your properties. For more information, please visit their website at www.blackdomeservices.com or email Vic Draper at Victor.Draper@blackdomeservices.com.

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    42 mins
  • Episode 61 - The Year in Review

    Episode 61 - The Year in Review
    Dec 23 2025

    The 61st episode of What the M features Kent McPhail and Steve Hladik wrapping up 2025 with a year-end review. Check it out to find out what happened- and didn’t happen- in the default servicing industry this year, along with what Kent and Steve predict is next to come in 2026!

    ***************************************************

    A huge thank you to our Season 4 sponsor, Black Dome Services. Black Dome Services is a next-generation property services provider, offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to the unique needs of their clients. From property inspections, preservation, maintenance, renovations and various other interior and exterior property related services, you have a trusted leader dedicated to delivering exceptional results and maximizing the value of your properties. For more information, please visit their website at www.blackdomeservices.com or email Vic Draper at Victor.Draper@blackdomeservices.com.

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    25 mins
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